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Most trail horses are a reasonable size, but this New Jersey farm skipped that memo and went straight for the giants. In the hills of Long Valley, riders climb aboard Clydesdales, the same famous draft breed known for pulling heavy wagons.
These horses have names like Remus, Tito, and Jim, and they carry beginners and seasoned riders alike along a real countryside trail. Keep reading to learn where the farm sits, what the rides are like, who runs the show, and how to plan a visit without guesswork.
A Clydesdale Farm Hiding in Long Valley
Tucked into the rolling corner of Morris County sits a farm with some unusually tall residents. Willow Grove Farm is located at 458 W Mill Rd, Long Valley, NJ 07853, in the northern part of New Jersey.
The farm operates as a horseback riding service, but its specialty sets it apart from the typical stable. Most of the horses here are Clydesdales, the massive draft breed many people only see in parades or on television.
That alone makes the place a curiosity. Few riders ever get the chance to sit on a horse this big, let alone take one out on a trail.
The farm has earned a 4.8-star average across more than 180 public impressions, which says a lot about how people leave feeling. Trail rides and Clydesdales come up again and again as the main draws.
Long Valley itself is a quiet, rural part of the state. The drive out is part of the appeal for many, with farm country replacing the busier roads of North Jersey along the way.
For anyone who thought New Jersey was all highways and shore towns, this farm offers a strong counterargument. The next question is who keeps all these big horses happy.
The Family Behind the Barn
Every good farm has a story, and this one is a family affair. The farm has been run by an owner named Win, with his daughter Morghen playing a central role in caring for the horses and managing the operation.
Morghen gets frequent credit for how well the horses are looked after. Riders who have spent time at many barns single her out for understanding what these animals need to stay healthy and content.
Safety sits at the top of the priority list here. The approach puts the well-being of both horses and people first, which matters a lot when the horse weighs as much as a small car.
The horses themselves look well kept and healthy, a detail that comes up across years of experiences. That kind of consistency usually points to steady, careful hands running things.
Honesty is another trait linked to the family. One buyer drove to New Jersey to purchase a horse and found it matched the description exactly, which is not always a given in the horse world.
It is a small operation with a big reputation. And the stars of that reputation are, quite literally, enormous.
Meet the Gentle Giants
Remus, Jim, Tonka, Wayland, Tito, and Gypsy. Those names belong to some of the horses riders have taken out on the trail, and each one tends to leave an impression.
Clydesdales are draft horses, bred for strength and steady temperaments. At Willow Grove, they earn the nickname gentle giants, a phrase that fits their calm way of moving through the world.
Their size brings a practical bonus. Because these are draft horses, the farm can accommodate larger riders who might not fit the weight limits at other stables.
Not every horse is a veteran. Benny, a young four-year-old, has impressed riders with how quickly he responds to commands.
Personality shows up at the fence too. A friendly bay mare once wandered over to a returning guest, not looking for a snack, just offering a friendly nuzzle.
Many people arrive having dreamed of riding one of these big horses for years. Getting to know them by name turns that dream into something personal, and it sets the stage for one very tall celebrity.
Big Man and His Towering Reputation
Some horses are big. Big Man is in another category entirely.
He has been described as one of the world’s tallest horses, and he lives right here in Long Valley. Even with that towering frame, he is known to stroll over to the fence for his share of attention.
Meeting him does not require a saddle. Guests have stopped by simply to see the horses, reaching over the fence to greet them and talk to them.
That kind of casual horse viewing is part of what makes the farm feel welcoming. It is not only about booking a ride, but also about getting a close look at animals most people only see from afar.
Helpful young staff members sometimes walk along between the paddocks too. They answer questions about the horses, which turns a quick visit into a mini lesson.
A photo next to a horse this size makes everyone look small. Big Man seems perfectly fine with that arrangement, and he rarely turns down a fan.
Of course, admiring the horses is only half the fun. The real adventure starts when riders head out to the trail.
Out on the Columbia Trail
The trail ride is the farm’s signature experience, and it is the topic people mention most. Rides head out onto the Columbia Trail, a well-known path running through the Long Valley area.
The setting earns frequent praise. Riders describe the trail as stunning and the overall location as scenic, with the calm pace of the Clydesdales letting everyone take it all in.
Many people call the experience peaceful and even therapeutic. Sitting high on a draft horse while moving slowly through the countryside has a way of clearing the mind.
It helps to know the trail is shared. Bikers use it too, so riders may pass cyclists along the way.
Some rides follow an out-and-back route, returning along the same stretch they took going out. Anyone hoping for a long loop through varied terrain may want to ask about route options before booking.
Wildlife sightings can add a surprise twist. An American bald eagle has turned up in a couple of accounts, a nice bonus for anyone who keeps their eyes on the sky as well as the horse.
Choosing the right ride length shapes the whole outing, so the options deserve a closer look.
Ride Lengths for Every Comfort Level
Not every rider wants the same amount of time in the saddle. The farm offers a range of ride types, from shorter sessions to longer outings.
A one-hour ride session is a popular choice. It gives first-timers enough time to settle in without feeling worn out.
For those craving more, there are extended and advanced trail rides. One group drove more than an hour just for the advanced ride and said they would gladly do it again.
Extended rides can run around 90 minutes. That longer format gives more time on the trail and more time to bond with a horse.
Costs vary by ride type, and longer rides are a bigger investment. An extended ride for two people has been reported at around $300 before tip, so checking current rates on the farm’s website is smart before booking.
Ride times do not always run to the minute. At least one rider found the outing came in under the listed hour, so it is worth confirming the expected length and route ahead of time.
Picking the right length is easier once riders know how the farm handles beginners. That is where things get reassuring.
No Experience Needed
Here is some good news for anyone who has never been on a horse. Riding at Willow Grove does not require pro-level skills.
Plenty of groups have shown up with mostly beginner riders, and everyone still had a great time. Novices often say they felt safe for the entire ride.
The horses deserve much of the credit. Their steady temperament makes them a forgiving choice for nervous first-timers.
Staff also take a hands-on approach with less experienced riders. In some cases, a guide will lead a beginner’s horse on foot for the whole ride.
That extra caution can surprise people who expected to steer on their own. Riders who want more independence should mention their experience level and expectations when they book, so there are no mix-ups on the day.
Horse assignments are made by staff based on their judgment. Anyone with a strong preference, such as wanting a Clydesdale specifically, should ask about it ahead of time.
Clear communication helps everyone leave happy. And speaking of the people doing the guiding, they have quite a fan club.
Guides Who Make the Ride
A trail ride is only as good as the person leading it. At this farm, the guides tend to steal almost as much attention as the horses.
Names like Emily, Evelyn, Anna, and Louise pop up often. Riders describe them as kind, patient, and easy to talk to.
Evelyn has been praised for making nervous riders feel comfortable from the moment they arrive. Her calm style helps the whole outing feel relaxed.
Emily has led advanced trail rides and earned warm words for being both skilled and friendly. Setup staff get credit too, for getting everyone ready efficiently.
The staff come across as informative as well. Many riders leave knowing more about Clydesdales than they did when they pulled in.
Flexibility is another plus. One pair once showed up without a reservation, and the team simply got to work preparing horses for them.
That said, booking ahead is the safer move, especially on weekends. A friendly guide is wonderful, but a confirmed spot is even better.
Beyond the trail, some of these same experts also teach, which opens another door for curious riders.
Lessons with Knowledgeable Trainers
Trail rides get the spotlight, but lessons are a quieter treasure here. The farm offers riding lessons with trainers who know their stuff.
Anna is one name that keeps coming up. She is described as an excellent teacher who stays patient and explains things clearly.
Young riders have done especially well with her. One boy took a lesson, learned a great deal, and then got a complimentary tour of the farm afterward.
That small extra touch says a lot about the farm’s hospitality. A lesson can turn into a fuller look behind the scenes.
Repeat students mention feeling welcome every time they return. Some come for group outings and then circle back for one-on-one instruction.
Lessons make sense for anyone who wants more control on future trail rides. A bit of practice can turn a passenger into a real rider.
Learning on a draft horse is a unique experience in itself. Few riding schools can offer a Clydesdale as a classroom partner.
Families with kids may find lessons a great starting point. And when it comes to young groups, the farm has a special talent.
Scout Troops and Barnyard Lessons
A troop of fourth graders, a brand-new foal, and a mini horse named Doug. That combination made for one memorable field trip.
The farm has welcomed youth groups like Girl Scout troops for hands-on learning. Kids get to ride the Clydesdales and learn how to care for a horse.
Doug the mini horse plays a starring role in these sessions. His small size balances out the giants and gives kids an easy introduction to grooming and care.
Timing can bring surprises too. One group got to see a foal that was only about two and a half days old.
The adults on staff stay patient with energetic young learners. Even the farm’s younger helpers, like Nora and Michael, have been praised for their kindness.
Groups often leave feeling like part of the family. That warmth is hard to plan, but it happens here regularly.
For teachers and troop leaders, it is a chance to combine fun with real responsibility. Kids learn that a horse needs care, not just admiration.
Grown-ups have their own reasons to gather here, as the farm’s event side proves.
A Clydesdale Wedding Guest
Few wedding guests get more attention than the couple. Remus the Clydesdale managed it anyway.
Willow Grove Farm has brought horses to weddings, giving couples a truly unusual photo partner. One couple met the horses, chose Remus, and had him attend their ceremony.
The process was hands-on. The pair visited the farm, worked with Win and Morghen, and then returned to pick their horse.
On the big day, the team arrived early to set up. Remus posed for photos and then greeted guests at the ceremony space.
He ended up being called the highlight of the day. That is quite a compliment at an event built around two people in love.
Professionalism stood out throughout the planning. The couple described the team as accommodating to every need.
Anyone dreaming of a fairytale moment with a horse might want to reach out early. Planning a giant guest takes a bit of coordination.
Weddings are not the only celebrations on the calendar, either. The farm’s barn has hosted parties of its own.
Barn Parties with Horse Appeal
Retirement parties usually happen in banquet halls. At Willow Grove, one took place in a barn surrounded by Clydesdales.
The farm has a barn area that can be rented for events. It suits gatherings where guests want horse interaction as part of the celebration.
Hosts describe the experience as classy and unique. The horses add a touch of charm that standard venues simply cannot match.
Planning tends to go smoothly. The owners and manager answer questions and keep the process simple.
Event hosts often say they plan to return for another party. That kind of loyalty speaks to how well these gatherings turn out.
Birthdays, milestones, and special occasions could all fit the setting. Details on availability and options are best confirmed directly with the farm.
A barn party here feels more like a country outing than a formal affair. Guests get to mingle with friends and meet a few very large locals.
Of course, horses are not just partygoers. Some of them eventually find new homes through the farm.
Hours, Booking, and Getting There
Planning ahead pays off, especially with a place this popular. The farm is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4:30 PM.
Monday is the one day off. Anyone mapping out a long weekend should keep that in mind.
Reservations are strongly recommended for trail rides. Walk-ins have occasionally been accommodated, but a confirmed slot avoids disappointment.
The farm’s website, willowgrovefarm.org, is the best place to check current ride options and rates. Prices change, and longer rides cost more.
Getting there means heading to Long Valley in northern New Jersey. Many people drive in from an hour or more away and say the trip is worth it.
The route itself is pleasant, with country scenery along the way. It feels like a mini getaway even before the ride starts.
When booking, share each rider’s experience level and any horse preferences. Asking about expected ride length and route helps set clear expectations.
Tipping guides is customary, so budget a little extra. With the logistics sorted, all that is left is deciding whether this farm belongs on the list.
Worth the Trip to Long Valley
Riding a Clydesdale sounds like something from a storybook. In Long Valley, it is simply a Tuesday through Sunday option.
Willow Grove Farm blends rare horses, caring people, and a scenic trail into one memorable outing. Its strong reputation is built on healthy animals and warm guides.
Beginners, families, scout troops, couples, and party planners all find something here. That range is unusual for a small farm.
A few tips keep things smooth. Book ahead, communicate experience levels clearly, and confirm ride length and route before arriving.
Expect to share the trail with bikers at times. Also expect staff to make safety calls about which horse each rider gets.
Those small details aside, most people leave planning their next visit. Many describe it as an experience of a lifetime.
New Jersey has plenty of surprises, but few stand quite this tall. A day spent with these big, easygoing horses has a way of sticking around long after the saddle comes off.
So the next time someone says the Garden State has nothing new to offer, there is a towering answer waiting on W Mill Road.
